Share this article

Toulon deny O’Connell talks

Toulon have denied that they are in talks with Paul O'Connell after reports they were on the verge of signing the Irish skipper.

The veteran lock has played his entire career at Munster, but was linked to a move to the south of France by Var Matin, as part of Toulon's recruitment drive.

The French club, who agreed terms with Quade Cooper over the weekend, released a statement denying that they were in talks with O'Connell.

"The Rugby Club Toulonnais, accustomed to all sorts of rumours about future potential recruits, is keen to deny what some see as information – namely the signing of the second row Paul O’Connell," the club said.

"The Rugby Club Toulonnais cautions that Paul O’Connell has not signed a contract with Toulon Rugby Club, and the alleged contacts between the player and the Red and Black are pure speculation."

Toulon are believed to be after a lock however, with Bakkies Botha and Ali Williams both retiring at the end of the current season.

Oyonnax second row Thibault Lassalle is joining the club, as is Northampton Saints Samu Manoa, who can play both lock and in the back row.